The Andromeda Strain

Universal Pictures | Release Date: March 12, 1971

8.0	USER SCORE Generally favorable reviews based on 20 Ratings

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Kai82Oct 4, 2020

Probably the most scientific accurate representation of dealing with a deadly biological or viral threat of unknown origin in movie history. This is however a mixed bag as it is interesting for some people like me who work in a laboratory orProbably the most scientific accurate representation of dealing with a deadly biological or viral threat of unknown origin in movie history. This is however a mixed bag as it is interesting for some people like me who work in a laboratory or others who have a scientific background but will be exceptional boring for a lot of people. After a satellite crashes near a small town in the USA all residents die except of a baby and an old man. The dispatched military unit who should recover the satellite or better said the debris also dies shortly after their arrival. With this a deadly virus, infection or unknown threat possible of alien origin is assumed and the scientist take over to research the menace to find a cure. It is based on the book of the same name by Michael Crichton who is forever remembered for Jurassic Park but has also written a lot of other successful books. It is some of the closets book adaptations that exists. They change not much with exception of the ending. It is a no nonsense and non-romanticized approach to the topic. It focused on the story and scientific accuracy. There will be no action scenes or romantic subplots. This is however the make or break point. They show a max security laboratory and even getting inn takes a lot of (screen) time as all precautions have to be followed. Even a single mistake can cost lives and an outbreak can doom humanity. They even explain that they could not use sugar in the canteen because it is a possible nutrient. Like I said this scientific approach is a mixed bag or mixed blessing. I find it very interesting but see that it will be a waste of time for others. However the story has it merits as the menace is complex and the story has good twists. The characters are interesting because of their believable conflicts and characteristics. They improved the story a lot. Also the conclusion is pretty good and an approach many other movies would abandon. Overall this is a movie unlike anything else. The unique approach is however divisive and definitely not with mainstream appeal. Watch for yourself but be warned. Bonus: If you like more of a Hollywood like approach I would recommend the movie “Outbreak” instead.… Expand

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HotelCentralApr 30, 2019

It comes down to this: The folks in the film create all their own problems and the biggest problem of all kind of solves itself. We used to call it "deus ex machina" back when people used Latin to show off their learning, and the film usesIt comes down to this: The folks in the film create all their own problems and the biggest problem of all kind of solves itself. We used to call it "deus ex machina" back when people used Latin to show off their learning, and the film uses a lot of hocus-pocus to distract you from it. But this is still a fairly entertaining ride unless you require lots of chattering machine-guns and roaring fiery explosions in your entertainment. The acting is solid and the dialog sounds credible enough, though fussy PhD's in science may disagree.

The technology is a little dated, but my nostalgic memories from the first time I saw the film more than made up for that.… Expand

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KenRMay 16, 2021

The Andromeda Strain – Covid From Space in the 70s

Science fiction probably has never been more realistically realized on screen - before or since ‘Andromeda’. Direction as professional as the amazing Robert Wise has transformed many andThe Andromeda Strain – Covid From Space in the 70s

Science fiction probably has never been more realistically realized on screen - before or since ‘Andromeda’. Direction as professional as the amazing Robert Wise has transformed many and varied styles of movies into cinematic greats, this is another. Nelson Gidding (Odds Against Tomorrow) adapts Michael Crichton’s book to perfection, while award-nominated Richard Kline’s vibrant cinematography gets knitted together perfectly, by Gilmore and Holmes editing. Not to forget Gil Melle’s exciting electronic score. Here is a 70’s Si-Fi film that shows us the ultimate importance --of honesty and respect-- that’s vitally essential to help keep our modern world functioning when threatened by the possibility of a deadly pandemic. No one nation can afford not to work unselfishly with all those that co-habit our fragile earth. That’s a strong & timely message from a 50 yr old Sci-Fi story. Great performances by a non-glamorous, handpicked cast of professional performers - ensures an edge of the seat journey to those who enjoy intelligent, near-documentary style movie making. If you’re only looking for action, don’t look here. No foolish monsters, no egotistical glamorous stars to foul up the seriousness of superior storytelling. Even though some of the technology has been superseded; it’s even more enjoyable the second time around, and the Universal DVD remastered edition, looks and sounds terrific.… Expand

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